A whaleboat is a type of open boat that is relatively narrow and
pointed at both ends, enabling it to move either forwards or
backwards equally well. It was originally developed for whaling, and later became
popular for work along beaches, since it does not need to
be turned around for beaching or refloating.

Whaleboats are traditionally oar-powered, although in whaling use
often had a dismountable mast and sails, too. After 1850 most were
fitted with a centerboard for sailing.
When sailing, steering was with a rudder; when rowing, steering was
done with an oar held over the stern. Whaleboats used in whaling
had a stout post mounted on the aft deck, around which the
steersman would cinch the rope once the whale had been harpooned,
and by which the whale would drag the boat until it was
killed.

The term "whaleboat" may be used informally of
larger whalers, or of a
boat used for whale
watching. On modern warships, a relatively light and seaworthy
boat for transport of ship's crew may be referred to as a whaleboat
or whaler. It may also refer to a type of vessel designed as a
lifeboat or "monomoy" used for recreational and competitive rowing
in the San Francisco Bay Area and coastal Massachusetts.